Former Npower building in Stoke-on-Trent gets new lease of life

Trent House has been empty for 5 years after former tenant Npower closed its Fenton operations

It's hoped that the former Npower offices in Fenton could see several hundred jobs created after being transformed into a business hub.

Trent House on Victoria Road in Fenton has stood empty since 2014 when energy firm Npower decided to close its operations there as part of cost cutting measures, with over 500 roles lost.

The site has now been taken over by Lancashire based Business Lodge who specialise in offering flexible office solutions for companies of all shapes and sizes, from start-ups to multi-nationals.

The building has had an update inside, along with changes to meet the needs of the new operator, including the installation of a gym, catering facilities and break-out areas.

Despite being vacant for so long, the Managing Director of Business Lodge, Kate Holt, says that Trent House was in "surprisingly good condition".

The firm already runs a number of similar office spaces in the North West and is looking forward to its expansion into Stoke-on-Trent, citing strong road and rail links along with the city being name the sixth best place in the UK to start a business as reasons for choosing the area.

Thanks to their investment Trent House can now offer serviced offices, virtual offices, meeting rooms and conference facilities. The flexible configuration of the rooms allows Business Lodge to tailor units to its clients requirements, including providing decor and furnishings.

Kate Holt said: "There is a true entrepreneurial spirit in the region and Stoke has recently been named the sixth best City in the UK to start a business in 2019.

"We’re delighted to be able to offer businesses a fantastic environment in which they can thrive. Trent House is well known in the area and is perfectly located for commuters, with close proximity to the train station and Hanley centre and links to motorways.”

Kate added: “In addition to the office space, we’ve designed the building to include lots of communal space, including break out zones, a games room, a gym, coffee points and grab and go food service. There is quite simply no other facility like this in the area.”

Business Lodge says they've had a steady stream of inquiries since announcing their plans for Trent House and hope that as occupation rates grow up to three hundred jobs could be created.